Humber designated for assignment

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros have designated pitcher Philip Humber for assignment, a day after he gave up five runs while only getting two outs in a loss to the Texas Rangers.

Just a year removed from pitching the 21st perfect game in major league history, Humber had a terrible start to 2013. He was 0-8 with a 9.59 ERA.

He started the season in the rotation, but was moved to the bullpen on Wednesday. He threw 1 1-3 scoreless innings in relief on Thursday before taking the loss in his second relief appearance on Saturday night.

Houston signed right-hander Edgar Gonzalez to take his spot on the roster. Gonzalez made the team out of spring training as a non-roster invitee, but was designated for assignment on April 5. He was claimed by Toronto and made three appearances there before he was designated for assignment by the Blue Jays on Thursday and opted for free agency.